Stuck in an exercise rut

I suggest getting measurements (along with the measurement that tells you how much body fat you  have). I had this done then started working out. I started to feel like I was getting into a rut, and started slowing down and stuff. Then they did a recheck on me, and when I saw how much my body fat had gone down, and my muscle mass had gone up, it really got me going. I also suggest changing things up. Don't do the same thing everyday. 

Personally I like a routine... I've never been one to mix things up too much!!!  However, the best thing I ever did was join a gym and start working out with a trainer.  I struggled with justifying the extra cost of using a trainer but it was so worth it.  From the get go we developed a routine that included cardio and strength training.  I knew she was counting on me being there at a certain time and it got me into the habit of going to the gym!!!  Sometimes I think getting over the hurdle of actually going to the gym is harder then getting out of a rut!!!  

Now I do 2 group fitness classes a week and run/walk 3 times a week.  If I'm on the treadmill I will use resistance bands or weights.  I would like to start working on some weight machines... maybe I will try to find a way to add that to my routine and start mixing things up a bit!!!

I had RNY and it was difficult to change the old habits of sitting in front of the tube, so I have and will continue to keep after it, even when there seems to be no time between work,family etc,, If nothing else I go for a brisk walk,, it is always better to do something then nothing.

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I get bored, so I need group classes and activities.  For me, seeing the same people each time motivates me to come back.

I think I've convinced myself time and again that there is always something more important to do BUT exercise!!!  If anyone has a magic trick that gets them motivated, please let me know too!!!  

It is SO easy to get in a rut.

Try working out with a friend - if you are meeting a friends for a walk or at the gym it is harder not to go when you know that SOMEONE is waiting for you.

Try a new class, new pieces of equipment or exercise machine.

Change your walking route - find some hills.

Shoot for a goal. Run or walk your first 5k, 10k ....

Give yourself some POSITIVE self talk about WORKING OUT.

Notice how good you feel after STICKING to your routine for 3 weeks.

Reward yourself with a little something ... like a pedicure, new clothing ..etc.

I was advised that I should change my exercise routine up at least every four weeks. However, ruts still occur for me as I have been working out daly for the last two years. The problem for me is that my intensity level was not where it needed to be. I no longer challenged myself. I would do cardio for over two hours and strengthen training for an hour but my weight loss stopped. I recently added walking a minimum of 10,000 daily to my routine and things he begun to move again. I hate to admit this but I now no the value of sweating and getting my heart rate up as I burn more calories due to this. My husband purchased me a montior where I could get a visual of what I was doing and this really helped me step it up. I guess the best way to get out of an exercise rut is to get moving an I mean to really push yourself.

Break it up!

Do upper body weight lifting one day, then bike the next, weights, walk, kettle ball exercises...

Do social activities like dancing, bowling, a walk, roller skate, bike group, volleyball, basketball, swim....

Challenge your kids to exercises on the Wii...sports and or the Wii Fit board...

I love riding bikes and walking for my exercise.  The only problem with living in Arizona and having crazy work hours is that during the summer months, I can't do much of either unless it's at 4 in the morning or 11 at night when it maybe cools off under 100 degrees.  I have discovered the Wii Fit though and have been using that to help me with my cardio and other exercises.  It makes it a lot of fun and you're exercising and hardly realizing it.  I also just purchased a mini trampoline so I can use it to exercise when my husband is watching tv and I don't have access to the Wii.  I just have to get into a routine and stay there which is the hardest part.

Boy, do you sound like me.  I  am at the same place.  I have decided to get out of the house and try doing more things outside rather than sticking to the same old routine of what I have been doing.  By the time I get home from work which is usually late and get things ready for the next day, it is time toget to bed so time has been an issue for me.  I like exercising and the way I feel when I do it on a regular basis.